Santa Barbara, CA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Santa Barbara, CA?
| Regulation | Details for Santa Barbara, CA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: (805) 882-8900 |
10 PM - 7 AM
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Santa Barbara, CA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Santa Barbara, CA?
Santa Barbara, CA's Chapter 9.16 noise ordinance prohibits unnecessary or excessive sounds annoying to sensitive individuals. General noise disturbances, including amplified sound, are restricted from 10 PM to 7 AM across residential property lines. Construction and mechanical equipment also face specific operating hours and decibel limits, with violations subject to escalating fines and administrative enforcement.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not specified (general disturbance criteria apply) | Noise exceeding ambient by 5 dBA for construction; 53 dBA at property line for mechanical equipment; 60 dBA outdoors for amplified sound; 45 dBA indoors for amplified sound |
| Commercial | Thresholds for new land use exceeding 75 dBA for office/commercial/retail or 70 dBA for hotels/manufacturing trigger review | Not specified |
Note: Decibel limits vary by noise source and land use type. New land uses exceeding 60 dBA (single-unit residential) or 65 dBA (multi-unit residential/schools/hospitals/parks) require review.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Unlawful between 8 PM and 7 AM if noise exceeds ambient by 5 dBA at residential property lines, unless special permit is granted. General construction hours are 7 AM to 8 PM daily. Certain large projects may have specific hours: 7 AM - 5 PM weekdays, 9 AM - 4 PM Saturdays, prohibited Sundays/holidays.
- Amplified Sound:
Prohibited between 10 PM and 7 AM if audible across a residential property line, extended to 1:30 AM on New Year's Day. Limited to music or human voice. Must not be audible in hospitals, rest homes, convalescent hospitals, or churches during services. Outdoor volume not to exceed 60 dBA at property line; indoor volume in residential structures (not originating dwelling) not to exceed 45 dBA.
- Animals:
Noise disturbances from pets are subject to the ordinance. Santa Barbara County has dog noise nuisance ordinances.
- Vehicles:
Collection trucks during stationary compaction process shall not exceed 75 dBA at 25 feet.
- Leaf Blowers:
Prohibited in residential zones if operated within 250 feet; maximum noise level 65 dBA. Gasoline-powered leaf blowers are prohibited.
- Mechanical Equipment:
Hours for non-vehicle, non-electric utility equipment: not outside before 8 AM or after 7 PM on Saturday, Sunday, or holidays; or before 7 AM or after 7 PM Monday-Friday. Sound at property line of adjacent residential, public, or semi-public uses not to exceed 53 dBA. Wind machines are prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions about Santa Barbara, CA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Santa Barbara, CA?
10 PM - 7 AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Santa Barbara, CA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified (general disturbance criteria apply) during the day and Noise exceeding ambient by 5 dBA for construction; 53 dBA at property line for mechanical equipment; 60 dBA outdoors for amplified sound; 45 dBA indoors for amplified sound at night. Excessive vibration or bass that is plainly audible at the property line may also be a violation.
Who do I contact to report a noise violation in Santa Barbara, CA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Santa Barbara, CA police non-emergency line at (805) 882-8900. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at (805) 897-2676.